Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls


Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a flavorful twist on a classic appetizer, featuring spicy sausage, tangy Rotel tomatoes, smooth cream cheese, and cheddar, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a savory snack, or prepping for a holiday gathering, these sausage balls are sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Packed with Flavor – The combination of Rotel, sausage, and cheddar creates a bold, cheesy bite with a slight kick.
  • Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this a go-to recipe for any occasion.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, game days, potlucks, or even a quick breakfast option.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepped in advance and stored for easy reheating.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer – These sausage balls disappear fast, so you may want to make a double batch!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Breakfast sausage (hot or mild)
  • Cream cheese, softened
  • Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies), drained
  • Cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Bisquick or all-purpose baking mix

Directions

  1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine sausage, softened cream cheese, drained Rotel, shredded cheddar, and baking mix. Mix until fully incorporated.
  3. Form Balls – Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake – Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Cool & Serve – Let the sausage balls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Approximately 24 sausage balls
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

  • Spicier Kick – Use hot sausage and add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Cheese Blend – Swap cheddar for pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend.
  • Gluten-Free – Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick.
  • Bacon Addition – Mix in crumbled cooked bacon for extra flavor.
  • Herb Infusion – Add chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze uncooked or cooked sausage balls in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave in 20-second bursts until heated through.
Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

FAQs

How do I keep sausage balls from drying out?

Use full-fat cream cheese and make sure not to overbake them.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix and shape them a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage or Italian sausage works well as substitutes.

Do I have to use Bisquick?

No, you can use a homemade baking mix of flour, baking powder, and a little butter.

What dipping sauces go well with sausage balls?

Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo pair well.

Can I bake these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Can I make these without Rotel?

Yes, but they won’t have the same zesty flavor. Try substituting with salsa or diced jalapeños.

How do I know when they’re done?

They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

Can I add vegetables to the mix?

Yes! Finely chopped bell peppers or onions can be added for extra texture.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s better to shred your own cheese, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.

Conclusion

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Their cheesy, savory, and slightly spicy flavor makes them a crowd favorite. Whether you’re making them ahead or serving them fresh from the oven, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

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Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: About 30 sausage balls 1x
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delicious twist on classic sausage balls! They’re packed with creamy cheese, spicy Rotel tomatoes, and savory sausage, making them the perfect party appetizer or snack. Easy to make with just a few ingredients, these bite-sized treats are always a crowd favorite!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb (16 oz) pork sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups Bisquick baking mix

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix until well incorporated.
  • Add the drained Rotel, shredded cheddar cheese, and Bisquick. Stir until evenly combined.
  • Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use spicy sausage for an extra kick!
  • If the mixture is too sticky, chill it for 15–20 minutes before rolling into balls.
  • Serve with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy mayo for dipping.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

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